Review
Turnstile's GLOW ON, released in 2021, is an absolute thrill ride that pushes hardcore to unexpected places, blending raw power with melodic twists and genre-bending experimentation. Known for their intense energy, Turnstile levels up here with tracks that fuse hardcore roots with elements from indie, R&B, and even electronic music, thanks in part to the album’s producer Mike Elizondo and collaborations with Blood Orange on tracks like “Alien Love Call.” This album goes from pulse-pounding riffs on tracks like “Holiday” and “Blackout” to more ambient, dreamy atmospheres in “Underwater Boi,” creating an eclectic and cohesive sound.
Frontman Brendan Yates shows a dynamic vocal range, flipping between shouts and melodies that add layers of emotion, especially on introspective tracks like “Fly Again,” which reflects on loss. GLOW ON doesn’t stay anchored to one sound but instead flows with an unpredictable, festival-ready vibe that keeps listeners guessing. Turnstile is unafraid to embrace pop elements within a hardcore framework, giving tracks like “Don’t Play” a catchy edge without sacrificing the band’s grit.
In just 35 minutes, this album packs 15 songs with an economy that keeps it fresh and impactful. Rather than sticking to hardcore conventions, Turnstile crafted an album that feels bold and exploratory, proving they’re willing to stretch the boundaries while staying true to their roots. If you’re into hardcore with a twist—or just want to experience something raw yet genre-blending—GLOW ON is definitely worth the dive. - Jamie
